The Salinas Lagoon is a beautiful natural salt flat located at about 4,300 meters (14,100 ft) above sea level, within the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, just two hours from the city of Arequipa.
Its landscape changes with the seasons: in the dry season (April to December), it is covered by a brilliant white mantle of salt that reflects the sky like a mirror. In the rainy season (January to March), it transforms into a water mirror inhabited by Andean flamingos and other high-altitude birds.
During the journey to the lagoon, you will enjoy impressive Andean landscapes, observe the majestic Misti, Pichu Pichu, and Ubinas volcanoes, and see vicuñas, llamas, and alpacas in their natural environment. Additionally, you will visit the charming village of Chiguata, surrounded by green fields and local traditions.
Our adventure to the Salinas Lagoon begins with a pick-up from your hotel in Arequipa, heading towards the most amazing landscapes of the Peruvian highlands (Altiplano). On the way, we will visit the picturesque village of Chiguata, where we will enjoy a delicious continental breakfast while admiring the typical rural surroundings of the region.
We will continue our journey to the Salinas and Aguada Blanca National Reserve, home to diverse Andean wildlife such as vicuñas, alpacas, and llamas. As we ascend, the landscape transforms into a forest of Queñuales, resilient trees that thrive at these high altitudes. From here, you can appreciate imposing views of the Misti Volcano, one of the most emblematic and active volcanoes in southern Peru.
Upon arriving at the Salinas Lagoon, the natural spectacle will depend on the season. In the dry season, the ground is covered by a white layer of salt that reflects the sky; while in the rainy season, the water forms natural mirrors inhabited by three species of Andean flamingos. We will explore the surroundings of the lake and enjoy some free time before returning to Arequipa, concluding a day full of nature and unique landscapes.
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| Salinas Lagoon Tour | |
|---|---|
| Group service | Inquire |
| Private Service - minimum 2 people | Inquire |
The famous mirror effect happens during the rainy season (January to March). However, in the dry season (April to December), the lagoon transforms into an impressive white salt flat where you can see hundreds of flamingos.
You can see three types of flamingos (Parihuanas), herds of vicuñas (Peru's national animal) in the wild, as well as alpacas, llamas, and the curious vizcacha (an Andean rodent similar to a rabbit).
Yes. The lagoon is located at 4,300 m.a.s.l. (14,100 ft). We recommend spending at least one night in Arequipa before taking this tour to avoid strong symptoms of altitude sickness.
Exactly! In the dry areas of the lagoon, the white salt plain is perfect for playing with depth and taking creative perspective photos, similar to those taken in Bolivia.
The sun's reflection on the salt is very strong, so sunglasses and sunscreen are mandatory. It is also very windy, so a good windbreaker jacket is indispensable.
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